Santa Cruz Copper Project Confirms Strong Economics with Preliminary Feasibility Study
Ivanhoe Electric Inc. announced the completion of its 2026 Preliminary Feasibility Study for the Santa Cruz Copper Project in Arizona.
The study confirms the strong economics of a modern, high-grade underground copper mining operation and heap leach processing facility supported by advanced technologies.
The project's initial capital is estimated at $1.43 billion, with cash operating costs of $1.47 per pound of copper, resulting in an after-tax net present value of 8% of $3.5 billion and a 30.0% internal rate of return at current COMEX copper price.
The project incorporates the Robbins Crossover Tunnel Boring Machine for improved mine access, allowing for faster production ramp-up and average annual copper cathode production of 75,000 tonnes over the first fifteen years.